Hokkaido Wild Winter Japan

17 Feb – 26 Feb 2027
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Japan
10D 9N
5 Guests
$ 6500
Japan
10D 9N
5 Guests
$ 6500

Summary

Hokkaido – The White World
Traverse winter’s heart in Japan — from Jigokudani for the snow monkeys to icy marshlands  and frost-laden forests. The Mecca for minimalistic photography. A place where you can connect with yourself and communicate through imagery. An absolute dream in our eyes. Our trip will take us from the remote valley in South-west Japan for the snow monkeys to the northernmost end of Japan in search of the Stellars Eagles. A journey that you will not forget very easily. Join us to a place that will transform you as a wildlife photographer.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival at Jigokudani, afternoon with the monkeys
17 Feb 2027

Land in Sapporo, transfer to Jigokudani, settle in, and capture evening scenes in snowy forest environs.

Day 2 Snow Monkeys & Winter Portraits
18 Feb 2027

Visit hot springs to photograph snow monkeys, combine ambient portraits and behavioral frames.

Day 3 Journey to Kushiro
19 Feb 2027

Move eastward to Kushiro, starting early morning from Jigokudani to Tokyo and onwards by flight

Day 4 Kushiro Marsh Explorations
20 Feb 2027

Photograph red-crowned cranes, marsh wildlife, reflections, textures, and subtle minimalism in snow.

Day 5 Full day with the cranes
21 Feb 2027

Photograph red-crowned cranes, marsh wildlife, reflections, textures, and subtle minimalism in snow.

Day 6 Lake & Forest Narratives
22 Feb 2027

Travel to Lake Kussharo after a full day with the cranes, shoot surrounding wetlands, ice edges, and waterbird activity at dusk if time permits

Day 7 Transfer to Rausu
23 Feb 2027

Explore landscapes around the lake with a full day with the swans.

Day 8 A day at the coast
24 Feb 2027

Move to Rausu, stopping on coastline or forest edges for atmospheric captures. afternoon in Notsuke for Fox

Day 9 The last ride
25 Feb 2027

Early morning boat ride at Rausu for eagles, afternoon in Notsuke,

Day 10
26 Feb 2027

A final boat ride to meet the eagles before we head out to catch our flights to tokyo,

Stays

Inclusions

Inclusions

  • All ground transfers within Hokkaido
  • All meals from dinner Day 1 to breakfast Day 8
  • Guiding, mentoring & image reviews
  • Entry / access permits
  • Field support (gear advice, cleaning)
  • Local taxes, service charges
  • Scheduled photographic outings

Exclusions

  • International flights to/from Japan
  • Visas, insurance
  • Camera gear (except shared basics)
  • Tips / gratuities
  • Optional side tours
  • Drinks beyond basic
  • Laundry beyond basic
  • Any items not specified

FAQ

Passport, Visa & Entry Requirement

A Japan Tourist visa will be required.

Ensure that your passports have at least 6months of validity

We arrive in Tokyo and will be taking a bus to our hotel. We will be met with by our local guides at the hotel.

A lot of cold and biting winds are to be expected.

Temperatures down to -30C and a lot of standing around in cold and snow.

 

We will be having an exclusive mini bus for our group

If someone wants extra boat rides for the eagles, those can be arranged on the spot.

Base / Under Layers

  • Thermal top (moisture-wicking)

  • Thermal bottom / long underwear

  • Thermal / wool socks (multiple pairs)

  • Underwear (quick-dry)

Mid Layers

  • Fleece or wool sweater / pullover

  • Insulating jacket (light down or synthetic)

Outer Layers

  • Heavy down / insulated winter jacket (windproof & waterproof)

  • Waterproof / windproof shell jacket (overlayer)

  • Insulated, waterproof pants / snow pants

Footwear

  • Waterproof winter boots (high enough to block snow)

  • Ice-grip attachments / crampons (optional for icy sidewalks)

Accessories / Extremities

  • Waterproof gloves or mittens (pair)

  • Liner gloves (thin inner pair)

  • Warm hat / beanie (covers ears)

  • Neck gaiter / scarf

  • Balaclava / face mask (for very cold/windy days)

  • Ear muffs (optional)

  • Hand warmers / foot warmers (disposable or reusable)

Eyewear / Sun Protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Ski or snow goggles (if you’ll be in heavy snow)

  • Sunscreen (for UV reflection from snow)

  • Lip balm & moisturizer

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